Bible Commentaries
Psalms 26

Verses 1-12

REFLECTIONS. This Psalm is David’s appeal to heaven, under the unjust and injurious imputations of Saul and his court. Judge me, oh Lord, for I have walked in mine integrity, with loyalty towards my king, in purity and uprightness before thee. He had not sat with cabals of insidious rebels and evil doers, as had been insinuated.

He had not trodden the polluted ground of idolatry, but had entertained exalted ideas of the sanctuary, and would wash his hands in innocence. The apostates who had offered their children to Moloch, are justly prohibited and repelled from approaching God in the day of trouble with bloody hands. Isaiah 1:15. Oh that those who now frequent places of worship in their sins, would properly think of this. Their prayers are abominable, because they ask grace of heaven to return to their sins with the greater zest.

On the contrary, David had, and with unwavering heart, loved the habitation of his holiness, the place where the Lord’s honour dwelt. To love God, to love his word, to love his saints, are among the most consoling marks that we belong to the family of heaven.

Men who worship in purity can ask with filial confidence, that God would preserve them in all the future dangers and difficulties of life, and redeem them from all evil and mischief. To them the promises are sure; call upon me in the day of trouble, and I will deliver thee. Psalms 50:15.